Tips to Charitable Giving in 2020

In 2019 American’s hit a new record of charitable giving by donating over $410 billion. 31% of annual giving occurs during the month of December, which is National Giving Month, and 12% of all giving happens on the last three days of the year.1

This year more than ever, local and nationwide charities are in need of both monetary and item donations due to the impacts of COVID-19. If you have the means, small donations are encouraged as many small donations have the potential to equal a large sum. If you don’t want to opt for a monetary donation here are some options for you:

Donate your unused items. Next time you’re cleaning the house, see what items you don’t need anymore. Many charities need basic household items and clothes, especially jackets for the winter.

See if your employer offers a charitable donation program. Many employers can take a set amount from each paycheck for a charity of your choice, and some may even offer matching options to help your donation go further.

Sign-up for Amazon Smile. 0.5% of eligible purchases from your Amazon shopping will go to a charity of your choice.

Local charities in need of donations include:

• The Storehouse NM
• St. Elizabeth Shelters & Supportive Housing
• The Barrett Foundation
• Joy Junction

Make sure to save your donation receipts. If you itemize your taxes, you can write off some of your donations and may possibly reduce your taxes if the organization is a 501(c)3. You can check the IRS’s database to see what charities have this status.

Remember it’s not just Albuquerque charities that are in need - charities around the country are suffering. Look for charities near you so you can help the local community no matter what city or state you’re located in.

References:

1. https://nationalgivingmonth.org/